Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut

Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut is a vibrant Italian sparkling wine from Lombardy, crafted in the traditional method and designed to bring energy and elegance to the glass. Blending Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Nero, it captures the brightness and finesse that have made Franciacorta Italy’s most prestigious sparkling wine region. This non-vintage cuvée is a signature expression of the estate’s philosophy: interpreting the local terroir through meticulous blending to create a wine that is both refined and joyfully expressive.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, this Franciacorta Brut shows a bright straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles forming a delicate, continuous mousse. The nose opens with fresh citrus—lemon zest and grapefruit—alongside green apple, white flowers and hints of almond and brioche, reflecting its time on the lees. On the palate, it is dry, crisp and well-balanced, with a lively acidity that lifts flavors of pear, golden apple, citrus and subtle stone fruit. Notes of toasted bread, hazelnut and a gentle creaminess add depth without weighing the wine down, leading to a clean, mineral-driven finish. As a non-vintage Franciacorta, it is crafted for immediate enjoyment but can comfortably evolve for a few years in bottle, gaining a touch more complexity and softness over time.

Production
The grapes for Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut come from carefully selected vineyards in Franciacorta, in Lombardy, where the rolling hills and mineral-rich glacial soils give natural freshness and structure to the fruit. Chardonnay forms the core of the blend, supported by Pinot Bianco for finesse and Pinot Nero for backbone and subtle red-fruit nuance. The grapes are typically harvested by hand to ensure only healthy, perfectly ripe bunches reach the winery. After gentle pressing, the base wines ferment separately in stainless steel (and in some vintages partly in oak) before being blended to achieve the house style. The second fermentation takes place in the bottle, following the traditional method, with an extended period of aging on the lees to build texture, complexity and the fine bead that characterizes quality Franciacorta. After disgorgement, a carefully judged dosage results in a balanced Brut expression.

Food & Serving
This Franciacorta Brut is an excellent aperitif and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Try it with oysters, shellfish, sushi and sashimi, or delicate fish crudo; it also works well with light antipasti, tempura, fresh goat cheese, and simple pasta or risotto based on vegetables or seafood. Its freshness and fine bubbles make it a versatile choice for canapés and celebratory occasions. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F). Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle a few minutes before serving and pouring into proper sparkling wine flutes or tulip-shaped glasses will help the aromas fully express themselves.

Producer
Contadi Castaldi is a respected producer in Franciacorta, based in the heart of Lombardy’s premier sparkling wine region. The estate’s name recalls the area’s historical roots, when local lands (le “contadi”) were managed by noble land stewards (i “castaldi”), underscoring the deep connection between vineyard, landscape and people. Established with a modern, quality-focused vision, Contadi Castaldi has become known for its precise, contemporary expressions of Franciacorta, especially its expertly blended non-vintage cuvées. By combining traditional-method craftsmanship with careful vineyard sourcing and an innovative approach to blending, the winery has helped to elevate Franciacorta’s reputation both in Italy and internationally as a serious alternative to Champagne.